Â
Article Date: 09 Dec 2009 – 3:00 PST
Responding to the launch of the cross-government strategy on mental health and wellbeing, New Horizons, Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), welcomed the breadth of vision contained in the strategy. He said:
“Organisations and people often shy away from dealing with mental health issues, however this strategy makes it everybody’s business. Bringing mental health and wellbeing into the mainstream is the right thing to do and will help thousands of people each year. This historic and ambitious announcement means that all government initiatives, whether it is building new homes or employing school nurses, must pay attention to the consequences for mental wellbeing. Not only is there a human cost if we do not get this right, but there is an unacceptable cost to the public as well.
“Nurses are often at the forefront in preventing mental health problems, and they can help to reduce the stigma which is sadly still associated with these conditions. We look forward to working with the Government to see initiatives introduced which can improve mental health across the board.”
Source
Royal College of Nursing (RCN)Â